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5'11 vs. 6 — What's the Difference?

Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Fiza Rafique — Published on December 26, 2023
5'11 refers to 5 feet and 11 inches in height. 6 refers to 6 feet in height. There's a 1-inch difference between the two.
5'11 vs. 6 — What's the Difference?

Difference Between 5'11 and 6

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Key Differences

5'11 and 6 are commonly used notations to denote height in feet and inches. While 5'11 indicates someone is five feet and eleven inches tall, 6 implies the individual stands at a full six feet. Both notations are prevalent in countries where the imperial system is used.
The representation 5'11 can sometimes be perceived as slightly less than the whole number representation of 6. Psychologically, whole numbers like 6 often appear as milestones or benchmarks. 5'11, while just an inch shorter, can seem substantially less due to this perception.
In terms of actual measurements, the difference between 5'11 and 6 is minimal—just one inch. That said, in contexts like sports, especially those where height plays a critical role, even an inch can make a significant difference.
When measuring objects or spaces, both 5'11 and 6 are specific measurements. For instance, when considering door frames, furniture, or clothing, understanding the subtle distinction between 5'11 and 6 is essential.

Comparison Chart

Notation

Uses both feet and inches
Uses only feet
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Perceived Value

Seen as less than 6
Seen as a benchmark

Actual Difference

1 inch less than 6
1 inch more than 5'11

Cultural Weight

Often overlooked
Informal tallness benchmark

Usage

Specific measurement
Rounded measurement

Compare with Definitions

5'11

A specific measure often used in the imperial system.
The clearance of the doorway is exactly 5'11.

6

Equivalent to 72 inches in total.
The average doorframe in the US is around 6 feet tall.

5'11

A notation indicating a height of 5 feet and 11 inches.
Jack stands at 5'11, just an inch shy of 6 feet.

6

A whole number representation of six feet in height.
Many basketball players exceed a height of 6 feet.

5'11

An almost-round value just before a whole number.
The statue was impressive at nearly 6 feet, precisely 5'11.

6

A rounded measure commonly used in the imperial system.
The clearance for the truck is exactly 6 feet.

5'11

A common height descriptor in personal profiles.
On his dating profile, he listed his height as 5'11.

6

A cultural benchmark for tallness in some societies.
He was proud to have reached the milestone of 6 feet in height.

5'11

A representation of 71 inches in total.
The basketball hoop was adjusted to 5'11 for the junior players.

6

A commonly used number in mathematics and measurements.
She bought 6 feet of ribbon for the project.

6

MI6; the agency or a particular agent.

6

One more than five; denoting a quantity consisting of six items or units; - representing the number six as an Arabic numeral

6

The cardinal number that is the sum of five and one

6

Denoting a quantity consisting of six items or units

Common Curiosities

Why might someone prefer to say 6 feet instead of 5'11?

6 feet is often seen as a milestone or benchmark in height.

How many inches is 5'11?

5'11 is equivalent to 71 inches.

How is 6 feet represented in inches?

6 feet is equivalent to 72 inches.

What does 5'11 mean?

5'11 represents a height of 5 feet and 11 inches.

How do 5'11 and 6 relate to the metric system?

5'11 is approximately 180.3 cm, and 6 feet is approximately 182.9 cm.

Can you convert 5'11 to the metric system?

Yes, 5'11 converts to about 180.3 centimeters.

Why might someone round up 5'11 to 6 feet?

For simplicity or to meet a perceived cultural benchmark of 6 feet.

What is the difference between 5'11 and 6 in terms of inches?

The difference is 1 inch.

Which countries predominantly use 5'11 and 6 to measure height?

Countries that use the imperial system, like the US, often use these notations for height.

Is 5'11 considered tall?

This varies by region and culture, but in many places, 5'11 is considered above average in height.

Is 6 feet the same as 2 yards?

Yes, both represent a length of 72 inches.

How do you pronounce 5'11?

It's pronounced "five foot eleven."

Why might a product be designed for those 6 feet and under?

Products might be designed this way to accommodate an average or majority height.

Are there other notations for representing 6 feet?

Yes, 6 feet can also be represented as 6'0" or simply 6'.

What's the significance of 6 in numerology?

In numerology, the number 6 often represents harmony, balance, and responsibility.

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Author Spotlight

Written by
Fiza Rafique
Fiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
Tayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.

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